Deux-Montagnes Responds to the Impact of Storm Debby and Torrential Rains

On August 9, 2024, the community of Deux-Montagnes, along with other parts of Quebec, faced significant challenges due to the heavy rainfall brought by Storm Debby. The severe downpour led to considerable property damage and other difficulties for many residents in the area.

In a statement from the City of Deux-Montagnes, it was reported that emergency response teams, led by the city’s General Director, were quickly mobilized as the storm began to impact the region. These teams worked to clear streets, assist residents, and deploy pumps to manage the flooding. The General Director, alongside blue-collar workers, firefighters, and police officers from the Régie de Police du Lac des Deux-Montagnes, remained active on the ground late into the night of August 9th and into the early hours of August 10th.

Mayor Denis Martin, speaking on behalf of the municipal council, expressed deep concern for the affected residents. He noted that city officials had been actively present in the community since the night of the storm, engaging with citizens and seeking ways to support those impacted by the disaster.

The city implemented several recovery measures in response to the flooding. As of August 10th, a deposit site was opened at the municipal garage, allowing residents to dispose of debris free of charge. Containers were placed at strategic locations, and a large-scale debris collection operation was initiated, which would continue as long as necessary. Additionally, psychosocial support teams from the CISSS des Laurentides were deployed at the city’s request to assist those affected.

To ensure the city was included on the list of disaster-stricken areas, Deux-Montagnes officials communicated with the Ministry of Public Security. The city emphasized the importance of an inclusive provincial relief program. Urban planning inspectors were assigned to assess and document the damages, assisting residents in filing claims with the ministry. The city also announced that renovation permits for affected properties would be issued free of charge.

Mayor Denis Martin also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects designed to enhance the city’s resilience to future storms, including the construction of a stormwater retention basin and a dedicated stormwater pumping station, expected to be completed by the end of the year.

In closing, Mayor Denis Martin expressed his gratitude to all municipal employees for their efforts during the crisis, noting the strong sense of community and mutual aid that was evident throughout the recovery efforts. The city underscored both the challenges posed by the storm and its commitment to supporting residents in the aftermath.